New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science
Explore ancient worlds with incredible dinosaur fossils, captivating science exhibits, and immersive planetarium shows.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient worlds with incredible dinosaur fossils, captivating science exhibits, and immersive planetarium shows.
"A great option for littles to be inside for a bit. The Dino at the entrance was the best!"
🎟️ Check for Free Admission
Utilize the Albuquerque Library's Discovery Pass for free entry!
🦕 Dino Enthusiast's Dream
Kids and adults alike rave about the dinosaur exhibits, especially the Bisti Beast.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Fossils
Main Atrium & Exhibits
Marvel at impressive dinosaur skeletons and fossils, including a Tyrannosaurus rex relative and the Bisti Beast animatronic.

Bisti Beast
Main Atrium
Come face-to-face with the impressive animatronic Bisti Beast, a highlight for many visitors.

Planetarium & Theater Shows
Planetarium & Theater
Experience captivating shows like 'Mission to Mars' or 'Desert Elephants' for an immersive learning adventure.
Bisticeratops Holotype Skull
Exhibit Hall
See a rare display of original holotype bones, including the Bisticeratops skull.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit: Renovations & Exhibits
Affordable Family Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Check for Free Admission
Utilize the Albuquerque Library's Discovery Pass for free entry!
🦕 Dino Enthusiast's Dream
Kids and adults alike rave about the dinosaur exhibits, especially the Bisti Beast.
🎬 Book Show Tickets Early
Purchase tickets at the counter for potential deals on planetarium and theater shows.
🚶♀️ Walkable & Engaging
The museum is well-laid out and engaging for all ages, making it easy to navigate.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Check for Free Admission
Utilize the Albuquerque Library's Discovery Pass for free entry!
🦕 Dino Enthusiast's Dream
Kids and adults alike rave about the dinosaur exhibits, especially the Bisti Beast.
🎬 Book Show Tickets Early
Purchase tickets at the counter for potential deals on planetarium and theater shows.
🚶♀️ Walkable & Engaging
The museum is well-laid out and engaging for all ages, making it easy to navigate.
🦈 Explore Shark Science
Discover the underwater past of New Mexico and its ancient shark inhabitants.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science for its engaging dinosaur exhibits and family-friendly atmosphere. While some exhibits may feel familiar to long-time locals, the interactive elements and planetarium shows remain a hit with children and adults alike. It's considered a great value for the price, offering an educational and fun experience for all ages.
"Great little museum! Not many exhibits that have changed since I was a kid growing home but my kids were done fast because it was “normal” for them. The earth quake part and the mars are was a huge favorite. Great option for littles to be inside for a bit. The Dino at the entrance was the best!"
Krystalyn Furgison
"My kids and I traveled to Albuquerque for a quick visit and had a great time at the museum. Prices were extremely reasonable and we enjoyed learning about the natural history of New Mexico. They have a lot of interactive exhibits that make visiting fun for all ages. The clerk at the front, Lisa, was wonderful and so friendly. Highly recommend buying tickets at the counter as you will get a great deal on show tickets. We saw the Mission to Mars show in the planetarium and the 3D Desert Elephants show. Such a great time!"
Janine Jarvis
"Always a fun time, I've been taking my son here since he could walk and now he's 11. He enjoys just as much too. We went for the Earth Day Family Event. I thought it was going to be a little more educational but still had some cute crafts to do. Love the new area especially the post card set up but wish they still had the space area."
Amanda M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in downtown Albuquerque. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transportation options also serve the area.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the museum. It's advisable to check for any associated parking fees upon arrival.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient way to reach the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science.
The museum is generally accessible. It's recommended to contact them directly for specific accessibility information regarding exhibits and facilities.
If you're coming from Santa Fe, driving is the most direct option. Alternatively, you can explore bus or train services that connect the two cities.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are generally reasonable, especially for families. You can often find good deals on show tickets when purchasing at the counter.
Yes, the Albuquerque Library offers a Discovery Pass that can grant free admission. Keep an eye out for special free event days as well.
While online ticket purchasing might be available, many visitors recommend buying tickets at the counter to potentially secure better deals on show tickets.
Operating hours can vary, and the museum has undergone renovations. It's crucial to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly with interactive exhibits that engage children of all ages. The dinosaur exhibits are a particular hit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the impressive dinosaur skeletons, the animatronic Bisti Beast, and the Bisticeratops holotype skull. The planetarium and theater shows are also highly recommended.
Most visitors spend a good portion of the morning or afternoon exploring the exhibits. You can easily spend 3-4 hours here, especially if you catch a show.
Yes, the museum features many interactive exhibits designed to make learning fun and engaging for children.
The museum offers a variety of shows, including space exploration (like 'Mission to Mars') and educational films about natural history.
Weekends can be busier, especially during peak hours. Visiting on a weekday morning is often recommended for a less crowded experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information about on-site dining options can vary. It's best to check the museum's official website or inquire upon arrival for current food service availability.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside museum exhibit halls. There might be designated areas for picnics.
Downtown Albuquerque offers a variety of restaurants and cafes within walking distance or a short drive from the museum.
Albuquerque is known for its delicious New Mexican cuisine, including green chile and red chile dishes. You'll find many local eateries serving these specialties.
If the museum has a cafe, they typically offer kid-friendly options. Otherwise, many nearby restaurants cater to families.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits. Always check for signage.
The dinosaur exhibits, especially the Bisti Beast and the T-Rex relative fossils, make for dramatic photos. The Bisticeratops skull is also a unique photo opportunity.
Video recording for personal use is usually permitted, similar to photography. Be mindful of other visitors and any specific museum policies.
The large dinosaur skeletons and the Bisti Beast animatronic are very 'Instagrammable.' The new displays also offer visually interesting content.
Natural light can be limited inside, but the museum's lighting is generally good for photos. Weekday mornings might offer fewer people in your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Budget-wise, this museum is very accessible. Admission prices are reasonable, and utilizing the Albuquerque Library's Discovery Pass can even make it a free outing. The museum is well-laid out and easy to navigate, making it a stress-free experience for parents. Many reviewers mention their children thoroughly enjoying their visits, with some kids loving it so much they want to return.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond admission, the museum provides hours of engaging entertainment without requiring additional spending. The dinosaur exhibits and interactive displays are captivating for all ages, ensuring a memorable experience without breaking the bank. Packing your own snacks or planning a visit to nearby affordable eateries can further enhance the budget-friendly nature of your trip.
🤓 Science & History Buffs
Beyond fossils, delve into earth science and space exploration through engaging displays and captivating planetarium shows. The museum's commitment to scientific accuracy and presentation makes it an intellectually stimulating destination. Engage with the detailed information and discover new insights into the natural world and beyond.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Age of Dinosaurs at the Museum
Beyond the large skeletons, the museum showcases a variety of fossils and paleontological discoveries. You can learn about the Triassic period and the creatures that inhabited the region millions of years ago. The Bisticeratops holotype skull is a particularly rare and fascinating display, offering a close-up look at actual fossilized remains. The museum's commitment to showcasing these ancient wonders makes it a must-visit for anyone interested in paleontology.
Many visitors, especially families, find the dinosaur exhibits to be the highlight of their visit. The combination of realistic displays and informative content makes for an educational and exciting experience. Whether you're a seasoned fossil hunter or just curious about dinosaurs, the New Mexico Museum of Natural History & Science offers an unforgettable journey back in time.
Beyond Dinosaurs: Science and Space Exploration
The planetarium and theater are integral parts of the museum experience, offering immersive shows that transport visitors to distant galaxies or deep into the natural world. Shows like 'Mission to Mars' and 'Desert Elephants' provide engaging and educational content for all ages. These presentations enhance the learning experience, making complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting.
Visitors have praised the museum's ability to blend different scientific disciplines, creating a comprehensive learning environment. From the ancient past of dinosaurs to the future of space travel, the museum provides a dynamic and enriching experience for curious minds.
Community and Nostalgia
Recent renovations and the museum's ongoing commitment to education have been met with appreciation from the community. Events like the 'Farewell Celebration' highlight the museum's role as a community hub, bringing people together to celebrate science and discovery. The sentiment of preserving these cherished spaces for future generations is strong among visitors.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit